X-Champions Issues
Issue #34 - All in the Family
Pagliacchi calls Laughton in the morning of a seemingly uneventful November day and indicates a client refuses to work with the associates, wanting to speak only with Laughton. Laughton off-handedly replies, "Fine, I'll cancel the appointment with the CIA," and agrees to take up the case. Before there conversation ends, Pagliacchi mentions the upcoming Thanksgiving feast that Manny's been talking up, and Hamlet, feeling magnanimous, - Manny's been talking up, and Hamlet, feeling magnanimous, agrees to an office party provided it is potluck, and not a totally catered affair. "It's in the spirit of the holiday, after all," he explains, heading off any arguments of frugality, and heads out to the meeting room.
It's Alan Chesterfield, lawyer to the rich and famous, who breezes by Suzanne Palmer on his way into see Hamlet. Suzanne almost recognizes him, his face familiar but not "clicking".
Chesterfield, alone with Laughton, explains that his anonymous client wishes to seek out a young mutant with the ability to greatly extend his cheeks - both facial and rear. He's short on details, giving just enough to resemble leads, and is quick to explain he expects Laughton is capable of pulling it off without visiting the scene that the mutant was last seen at and without knowing the family. He adds that if somehow this goes public, he will protect Laughton against any "negative publicity". Laughton thinks to himself, 'no such thing as bad publicity." Chesterfield goes on to explain that the mutant, known as Cheeks, went missing the 13th of November, a week prior, last seen at 7 AM. He was known as missing when not shown up to a soiree at 6 PM for which he was supposed to perform his manservant duties, apparently being a servant for his client.
Laughton sets about investigating, first checking to see if he can hack into Sihn's database on mutants but no such luck, at least not in the time-frame he'd prefer. He also checks the World Weekly News for any obvious leads, but to no avail. He is not surprised to find as he hacks into the federal mutant database that Cheeks is unregistered. With that, he hits the streets.
In the meantime the office is abuzz with Thanksgiving preparations. Manny spends his time working through the details, including securing a half day from Laughton - though he's disappointed to have found that by "half day" Laughton means they can knock off at 5 PM. Suzanne, also invited to Thanksgiving at Buffy's, plans on bringing cranberry sauce, and even Sammy is intending not to just consume but to bring.
James Daniels, the city's district attorney and friend to Suzanne's family, drops in to talk with Suzanne. As he often does - now that his and everyone else's memory about Suzanne's past in the D.A.'s office - he asks Suzanne if she's changed her mind and become interested in working for him. But his real purpose in visiting is to reveal that he knows about the mayor's offer to the Justice Squad and is there to consult as he knows she's Spectrum. Spectrum explains that paperwork is floating about and with the Feds now being involved things are very much confused. She goes on to explain they're trying to not make everyone upset at them while trying to find a compromise that fits. Daniels mentions he's had considerable experiences in dealing with U.S. governments at various levels and will be glad to help in any contract work they need. As they talk, they discuss Suzanne's family and it comes up that her parents will be in the Poconos and she won't be joining them for for Thanksgiving. As the family topic comes up, Daniels feeling Suzanne out about whether she'll discuss her mutation with the family, he waxes nostalgic about when she came to him with boyfriend troubles when she was a young teenager. As she serves up her vintage scotches for his selection, Suzanne muses as to why her "other self" would have wiped his memories of her work but not more embarrassing incidents in her life.
Meanwhile Sammy sees Laughton and as usual is eager to help in whatever investigation he can. Hamlet assigns him the task of researching some data on the Internet that is vaguely related to the case just presented by Chesterfield. While Hamlet already knows he could find the same answer in moments he wants to give Sammy a task to keep him busy and out of the way, while building Sammy's experience. He secretly mentally calculates it will take Sammy around 12 hours as Sammy eagerly sets to his task - on his cached internal-only Internet as provided by Laughton. Jane also joins in.
Laughton starts hitting the streets and looking up his various contacts. He can't find Blind Rufus but uses Sammy as the "role model" for what this escaped mutant may do, checking parks, the zoo, and the aquarium first on Belle Isle. In his interviews he comes across a security guard who seems to recognize the description of the rogue lad from last Saturday, three days prior. The young man was cited in off hours at the zoo and the police were called; they shot at him as he fled against their orders, running in the general direction of the city.
As Sammy works away, Jonas the Wonder Dog wanders into the room and begins sniffing Jane. Sammy is quick to react, growling so Jonas can understand. Jonas snorts and walks around the room a bit, finally finding a place to lay down. Then he gets up again and leaves, returning with a bottle in his mouth from Suzanne's area.
Back on Belle Isle, Laughton calls on the Ugly Thespian and Isaac Bernstein, figuring that the Thespian keeps tabs on what goes on at Belle Isle and would be the type to assist one like Cheeks, while Bernstein owes the Justice Squad. He first comes across Blue Jay Ray who points him to the Ugly Thespian and before long Laughton finds him, calling to him as his sharp eyes see the Thespian through a thicket of trees and into a clearing. The Thespian is his usual paranoid self and calls back to Laughton to tell him not to approach until he's sure he wasn't followed. First, though, he asks how Laughton is, to which the world's smartest but least humble detective replies, "Managed to save the universe again," going on to explain Nyarlathotep. As the Ugly Thespian interrogates Laughton as to whether he was followed, Laughton responds, "It is dark, Belle Isle, middle of November." They go on to briefly chat a bit as Laughton reinforces his familiarity with Sammy and the Troll, since the Thespian has not met Laughton before. As they finally close ranks to talk, the Thespian ensured he's safe, Laughton catches the Thespian up on the outside world. He goes on to explain there's a website about the Ugly Thespian and his acting, with 6 regulars contributing to the bulletin board. This is big news for a hermit like the Thespian who feels reviled by the world. Some trust established, Laughton describes Cheeks, turning on his counter-surveillance methods as he does so. It turns out that Cheeks did indeed encounter the Ugly Thespian and the Thespian steered him to some "friends in town."
But someone approaches and Laughton whispers, "hide" to the Thespian. It turns out just to be Isaac, Laughton's keen senses warning of his approach long before Isaac gives the customary safety signal for Thespian's comfort. The Thespian starts to realize who it is and all are comforted. Laughton offers up, "Hey, Isaac, long time no see." The three now together, the Ugly Thespian explains they've got a shack in the middle of the swamp that the Heap lives in and they head that way. Laughton asks if it's a "tar baby over double-walled cardboard box" setup, and rhetorically asks, "You know what the 'R' value is on an extra-large refrigerator box?!"
They get to the shack, a bit sunk into the swamp and looking a little tattered. The Ugly Thespian looks at Isaac sternly as he explains, "There was a fire..." and his voice trails off. They walk across a big plastic tarp on a mysterious mound and into the shack, a rather messy and precarious habitat. Laughton unenthusiastically says, "Greeeaat," as they step in.
At 8 PM, Sammy get a call from Velda who is working late, She mentions there's a toad-like being standing outside the door of Laughton Agency and asking to come in. Sammy says, "Don’t worry I’ll pick it up from here," and comes up. The toad-person on the other side of the glass calls into Sammy, “Hey, I’m hungry." Sammy is used to the Justice Squad getting requests from strangers and has learned not to be so trusting. He tries to ignore the toad, hoping his appearance will warn it off, but the toad exclaims again, “Hey!” and sends a mighty tongue laushing out, hitting the door and, surprisingly, cracking the highly-reinforced (game note - 20 DEF, 20 BOD) window. Sammy hollers back out, "This is not a restaurant!" The toad simply calls back, "I'm hungry, I'm cold," and goes on to add, "You got so much in there!" Sammy leaves, making sure he can monitor the situation on camera and telling Velda not to worry. Still, she's ready to go and asks him to escort her out the back way. Sammy suggests instead that Gere-luce drive her home, but Gere-luce is busy. Still, Sammy manages to contact Bob Rogers who is quite happy to help Velda get all the way home, picking her up on the roof. As all briefly meet, Jane having come up to join Sammy, Velda is rather tight-mouthed but, trying to get over her thing for Sammy and jealousy of Jane, squeezes out a "Hello, Jane."
When Sammy gets back downstairs, he finds that Jane had to reboot for some reason - and lost all their bookmarks, costing Sammy an hour of work...he just mutters, "hmmm, okay..."
Suzanne meanwhile has just had a dinner with Danielson and is returning to Laughton Agency to get her car. As she approaches the main Laughton Agency she of course runs across this creature - whose name is indeed the Toad. She asks, "Excuse me, having a problem?" The Toad turns to her, rather excited, and says, "I'm here because they help the mutants here, I was told, and I am in need of assistance." His voice is halting as he seems to be parroting words and social gestures, quite awkwardly. As Suzanne talks more, she finds the poor Toad is just a homeless mutant who has heard that there's a connection to the Justice Squad via Laughton Agency. The Toad seems autistic or institutionally retarded, and she decides to help him. He's surprised and grateful as he says, "You help the mutants?" by way of confirmation. She notes the crack in the window but lets him into the conference room most easily steam-cleaned - the one with the spray-on bed liner.
As he becomes more comfortable in speaking with her, he shows her his tongue, unrolling it without striking anything. He asks, "Are you in the Justice Squad?" He shoots his tongue around the room as if he were entangling the whole place in it, then snaps it back into his mouth in the same way a tape measure coils back up. She responds cautiously, "I do legal representation. You'll have to meet with the Troll or Rodin, they need to talk with you." The Toad asks, "Can I sleep here and talk to them in the AM and be all fresh for speaking with them?" She consents as the Toad admits, "I smacked that window and I broke it. Some guy yelled at me, he seemed very confused." Suzanne, wanting to ensure safety, scans his mind to find he's safe enough, lacking any ill-intent although certainly having lived a rough life on the streets including some violence, seemingly self-defense though from the brief glimpses she takes, not wanting to pry too much.
Then she's off to get him some of the base's ever-replenished baloney sandwiches and some coffee. She reassures him that he can meet up with the Justice Squad after 8 AM when the Laughton Agency opens. She also mentions that he should get cleaned up a bit, and inquires as to what he's been doing up to now. The Toad explains he's been "between jobs" in his halting, too-carefully-practiced way, since the 1980s economic problems. He indicates the humans have kept him down. She asks if he has a criminal record, and he replies, "Only under human laws." So she digs deeper into his mind, finding he hasn't killed anyone and only the typical street mutant-on-mutant violence with the only human violence seemingly self-defense.
About then Sammy comes upstairs and joins them. The Toad of course is afraid at first, though stable with Suzanne's presence, and Sammy, upon hearing the story from Suzanne, comforts the Toad. He uses his seduction-like abilities to befriend the toad-like creature, using his most soothing voice. Sammy calms him down, and then starts to explain how the agency works - including trying to explain, "You have to come up with billable hours. I'm always being lectured on billable hours." The Toad becomes concerned, unsure what this concept means, but again Sammy calms him, explaining it will all be made clear and he shouldn't worry. Then as Sammy mentions Hamlet Laughton's name, the Toad replies, "I thought maybe it was named after Charles Laughton."
Meanwhile, Suzanne calls Laughton on his cell phone, warning him about the Toad's intent to join and explaining that the mutant does need help though not in the sense of joining the Justice Squad. Laughton nods and exclaims, "UT!" as he learns the news, while the Ugly Thespian and Isaac whisper in the background, apparently arguing about the Thespian having raised the "fire issue" again.
Sammy and the Toad continue to talk, the Toad asking what he does. Sammy explains the sort of research he's doing now. The Toad enthuses, "Maybe you could show me sometime how to use a computer!?" Sammy recommends to the Toad "be yourself," as he relates that Laughton will find out what the Toad can do just from that. Sammy waxes as to how Laughton is "really smart." As they talk, the Toad mentions he's from Pittsburgh ("out east") and talks about the Justice Squad members, asking questions. Sammy mentions the Troll is gone due to another dimension (as Dr. Sihn no longer looks like the Troll form at any time and has changed so dramatically), and adds that he just remembers "a lot of screaming there." The Toad discusses "associate member” status, and Sammy expresses he's not sure what that would be. He goes on to explain that "Sihn also acts like a boss," and defines him as, "the guy with the cat and all those petrie dishes." Sammy offers up that Toad can stay in Manny's room - the one with the manacles to keep Manny from going out in werewolf form - and figure out what to do tomorrow. At some point in the conversation they compare IQs - it turns out the Toad's is 80.
The Toad finally settles down and gets ready to really rest, becoming exhausted as the excitement dies down and his fatigue sets in. There's a "nice" cedar-chip-filled bed in the room - the usual Laughton thriftiness - but Suzanne asks Sammy to change it out with a real bed. He brings up his rollaway bed with the MIckey Mouse sheets (a Laughton Goodwill purchase, as the sheets came with the bed). It's a little lumpy, but suffices. Suzanne is still on the phone with Laughton, who objects to the change, and she is forced to remind Laughton, "Yeah, but you're an alien." Spectrum works with Sammy to find an outfit that fits the Toad and he's shortly fast asleep.
Shortly thereafter Sammy finishes up his computer work.
Meanwhile, Laughton continues to look around the shack, and becomes impressed with how much they've done considering the meager resources and intellects. He shares tips for keeping non-water buildings more weather-resistant, to their appreciation. He also makes a note to subtly check around the shack, though he finds nothing of interest. They finish the conversation with Ugly Thespian letting Laughton know where he could go looking for the friends he referred Cheeks to, mentioning that they aren't so much friends as mutant contacts he's heard of, including a guy named Squid and his bar.
Spectrum heads out to check out a film and on the way calls Earl, the Shoveler, telling him about the Toad. She indicates he's not a good fit for the Justice Squad and the Shoveler leaps a bit ahead, saying, "So you mean he's a b-team guy?" He lets her know he'll speak with Roy when he comes in the next day. Suzanne then shortly meets up with Willow, Buffy, and the gang at a movie.
Laughton, in disguise, makes his way to find Squid and his mutant bar. The Ugly Thespian didn't know exactly where they'd be found, which means that Cheeks had to scout around as well, but he did know it'd be somewhere just north of Wayne State, north of I-94 in a bad area with condemned buildings. Laughton comes across a bum who manages to give him a lead to finding Squid, pointing him to an underground club on Baltimore and Woodward near the Amtrak station. Laughton tips the guy $1.87, an amazing amount for the world's stingiest detective. On his way around Woodward, Laughton checks out the churches, including the Blessed Sacrament, to see if Cheeks may be religious and seeking sanctuary, but to no avail. And he makes a late night stop at a 7/11 to buy some Ramen turkey flavoring for the upcoming office Thanksgiving feast - negotiating the purchase though takes a little time as Laughton is insistent on buying the flavoring and not the whole packet.
Back at the office, around 12:30 AM, Sammy has found the info and grabs it out of a printer, running around looking to see if Laughton is back. He runs into Suzanne who ended up not taking her car to the movie but is now out of the movies and some post-movie socializing and needs to go home. He asks her where Laughton is, and she mentions something about being on a case. Sammy pages Laughton, who ignores the page as he has just found the Squid's bar. Sammy then turns to Suzanne and exclaims, "I've got some vital information for him!" So Suzanne calls Laughton, more out of her own bemusement, first on the cell phone. This time Laughton, seeing who it is, answers, and she explains Sammy has important info. Laughton replies, "He's right on time. I've gotten that info just now" Sammy, turning on his mighty hearing, hears the whole thing - including the reference to Sammy's one-way Barbie phone, revealing the duplicity. Spectrum meanwhile idly muses that she's not fazed being out late as she's gotten used to patrolling with Nightshade. As the conversation turns to Toad, Laughton asks to ensure the "tongue guy" is properly secured. Suzanne explains he is, and goes on to indicate the 8 AM "appointment". Laughton grouches, "Eight AM? What am I going to do for 3 hours?" referring to his earlier office hours. Suzanne simply replies, "You'll only be halfway through your security checks then!" Laughton reflects she may be right. Then they sign off, Suzanne explaining as she's told that Laughton will call Sammy back.
Laughton hangs up, busily, and returns to business. He's infiltrated the bar as the "Pineal Glance". He has developed this deep cover identity by discovering some careful powers through his elemental-changing abilities fused with his human skills. He sees the Squid, a bulbous-headed figure with tentacles instead of arms or legs. He also sees Eyes, the bartender he fought with some time back. But he's not recognized as in his Pineal Glance guise he has three eyeballs - one in the center of his forehead - with a scruffy appearance. At first he's briefly challenged as to his mutant nature, as the bar wants to be secure, but he shows his third eye and quickly passes. As he's told, "Keep your nose clean," he wipes it with his arm broadly, replying, "Always do!"
The bar is fairly busy - for such a place - with some 30 patrons. The Squid is acting as bouncer while Eyes attends bar. There's no sign of Cheeks. The Pineal Glance orders a whiskey sour without any whiskey (a Laughton left-over) saying "It interferes with my ability to use my powers, man," pushing his hat up to reveal his third eye to the many-eyed Eyes. He establishes a rapport with Eyes, and before long Eyes takes a break and lets Squid bartend as the Pineal Glance has some "personal questions". Outside, Pineal Glance explains, "Ugly Thespian took me in for a bit," and starts to ask after the underground scene and Cheeks. Pineal Glance asks who's Cheeks "with", meaning Professor X or Magneto. When Eyes responds with, "the man," he knows it could mean either Professor Xavier or Magneto, but he's sure from the context it's Magneto in loyalties. As they talk and Pineal Glance refuses to show specific respect for Magneto, Eyes suddenly lets loose with an eye-blast, tearing apart a dumpster for show. He bellows, "You got a problem with Magneto?"
Pineal Glance gruffly, unimpressed, responds, "No, I got a problem with Cheeks. He cheated at dice."
They start talking about how they should look out for anyone as the blast no doubt attracted attention. They're sure no one is coming. As they talk about Magneto and the mutant movement, Pineal Glance expresses an independent attitude and a lack of belief in Magneto's statements. Eventually he says, "I'm freezing my petooties off," and goes back inside, warning Eyes, "Don't shoot your eye out at me, kid." As Eyes says, "Hail Magneto," Pineal Glance ignores him and moves on. He finishes his sour whiskey, convinced at least that the key to finding Cheeks is now getting in touch with his "old friend" - Magneto.
Upon leaving, he finally calls Sammy, who waits alone for Laughton as Jane has gone to sleep and Spectrum's gone home. At 2 AM Sammy's Barbie phone rings, sounding off with its trademark, "It's time to chat! It's time to chat!" Sammy answers and they catch up, Laughton briefly confirming what Sammy's found and congratulating him on his good work. After they hang up, Jonas, awoken by the call, sighs and gets into Sammy's lap. "There, there, " Sammy comforts him, "Dr. Sihn will fix it all," referring to Sihn's promise to restore Jonas to his proper body.
The next day Suzanne gets in a bit on the early side to look after the Toad. Sammy is up when she arrives, eager to help. Suzanne helps the Toad make himself look presentable and she makes introductions around the office as Earl (Shoveler) and Roy (Mr. Furious) from the Mysterymen stop by. Laughton is also there, making a crack about the Mysterymen and "permanent residence" as Roy has been frequently crashing at Laughton Agency, not entirely moved out in the wake of the disturbance at Sihn-tek.
As Spectrum introduces Toad to the Mysterymen, the Toad prattles on about his desire to join the Justice Squad. He goes on to explain that he's been unemployed from "February 6, 1981 until November 21, 2001" (i.e., that day), unable to find a job, and has mild schizophrenia. He mentions that this makes him view things "different" and that as he understands it the Justice Squad has the same reputation of seeing things differently. He goes on to state this would make him the "ideal candidate" to join their group. Hamlet uses the mental link Spectrum has to pass on to Roy and Earl that if they had the Toad maybe they wouldn't have blown up Magnus. He receives grimaces for his comment but he continues on, now audibly, to suggest to the Toad that he should join the Mysterymen. Outraged at Laughton's earlier "residence" crack and the subsequent mention of the problems at Dr. Magnus', Mr. Furious, always a powder keg on the edge, warns Hamlet he can blow at any time and starts to leave lest he go too far. Hamlet calls after Roy pointedly, while ostensibly explaining to the Toad, "The Mysterymen get FREE access to Sihn-tek building for FREE..."
The Shoveler remains and talks with the Toad, making it clear it would be an "entry level" position. The Toad, at first a bit confused at the turn of events and not quite grasping it, takes a bit to become used to the idea of being a Mysteryman but the Shoveler gently talks him into the idea, determined to help out the wayward soul. Laughton gets involved and explains that the Toad should be more like a "journeyman" which is "better than entry level." The Toad perks up and starts to get into the idea. Earl and the Toad shake hands, but then the Toad worries that a handshake is a contract and becomes concerned about what he's "signed". Laughton tells him not to worry, that they'll draw up a proper contract, and calls to Velda to "print out standard superhero pact rev three, change Justice Squad to Mysterymen, and bring four pens!" Earl shakes his head and quietly says, "No, that's not necessary." Laughton looks at Earl and says, "Two words: plausible deniability." Suzanne chimes in that she thought the two words would be "Avengers Assemble." Earl shakes off Laughton's idea and smoothes it over with the Toad, but then the Toad becomes concerned about where he'll stay. Earl again says not to worry, and Hamlet adds in, stressing the point, "You'll be staying at THE MYSTERYMEN'S BUILDING." Suzanne, though, adds that the Mysterymen could get some money to set things up right, and hints she may help fund.
The topic changes, though, as Earl asks Hamlet, Sammy, and Suzanne about Richard Weed, the annoying new Detroit-area government agent who, while taking a special interest in the Justice Squad, has also been to see and bother the Mysterymen. It comes up, as the Mysterymen share Sihn-tek with Buffy and her gang, that Weed has not been able to catch up with Buffy. Spectrum wonders how she does that, assuming it's magic. Laughton offers up advice on dealing with Weed, saying to Earl, "Two words," and rather than the usual two words, adds, "Absolut Citron," referring to Weed's drinking problem.
Just as Earl leaves with the Toad, the Laughton Agency continues to earn its reputation as the place to meet when Magneto drops in, having been reached by Laughton. As usual he entertains in his courtly fashion in the customary conference room, the one with the ready-to-be-placed "Erik" name tag. Laughton and Magneto talk first, as Laughton asks after Cheeks. Magneto readily admits that he knows Cheeks and mentions in passing Cheeks' past in "indentured servitude". He suggests the Justice Squad all meet Cheeks but Laughton resists. However, Laughton does relent as Magneto insists on including Suzanne and Sammy in the conversation. The talk ranges, though Magneto is drawn into a conversation about Ramen noodles and the use of its flavoring packets as part of the office Thanksgiving meal - to which Magneto is invited. As the subject turns to Origin, Suzanne mentions she's thinking of going. Magneto of course encourages this.
Later Laughton and Magneto finish their conversation as Magneto takes his leave, avoiding (unsurprisingly) the office party. Magneto points out that Cheeks' safety is paramount and goes so far as to forewarn Laughton, "Judge who you want to piss off," as they bicker about Cheeks' true safety and interests. Magneto continues to urge that the Justice Squad all see Cheeks, and in particular Eliot. Laughton sticks to his guns about meeting alone, but does go and speak with Suzanne and speaks with her about waiting in the wings with Sammy when he does go as he fears a trap. Laughton and Magneto finalize arrangements to meet in the salt mines later.
The office party begins. There are three kinds of turkey - Sammy's baloney turkey (dubbed "boturkey") from Gere-luce's food replicator; tofurkey (tofu turkey); and "KFT", Kentucky Fried Turkey. Suzanne barely remembers to provide the cranberry sauce while Sammy has bought all the stuffing he could possibly find at nearby stores - and has cooked them all up. Sammy presents them all gladly, and back at the Sihns has offered to Aela to do the same.
Suzanne heads over, during the feast (one she's hardly enamored of, given the bizarre combo), to visit with Buffy and Willow. She's particularly interested in how Buffy manages to avoid Weed and hopes to gain pointers. As it turns out, Buffy isn't under any sort of spell or otherwise extraordinarily dodging Weed; it's merely a matter of her not claiming to be "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" when Weed comes around. As there's no good photo evidence, she merely ducks the issue entirely. Then Spectrum catches up with Willow, though after Buffy apparently finishes a private chat with Willow first that had been started just prior to Suzanne's arrival. As Suzanne and Willow talk, eventually, the subject turns to the turkey lunch and Suzanne invites Willow over. Willow dubiously turns and asks, "Baloney?" Suzanne nods but clarifies there's more than just the "boturkey". Suzanne also reflects that she's really looking forward to the next day and getting out of the office, moving on to a proper Thanksgiving meal somewhere.
As Willow and Spectrum return to the office, the conversation turns back to avoiding Weed. The idea of an obfuscation spell comes up, and as it's discussed the Justice Squad suddenly realizes that Sihn has only spoken to weed once. They wonder if Sihn has enacted some sort of whammy...
Then Sammy gets a call from Phoenix Mel. Turns out that Phoenix Mel wants Sammy to drop by for a Thanksgiving feast in thanks for what Sammy's done (the advertising). He then asks Sammy, "Maybe that babe, Spectrum, would join you?" Sammy agrees to come by after he finishes his "chores", though makes no promises for the others.
And "chores" indeed, as Laughton asks Sammy to wash the paper plates (after all, why waste them and throw that money away?), and Sammy leaps to the conclusion this means billable hours. Laughton retorts that it can't be billable hours because no one works on the holidays and this is clearly a holiday. Suzanne ignores the whole exchange - having brought a real plate to the luncheon. Meanwhile, not quite done with the meal, Hamlet reuses his plate. Manny Wulfenstein is busily glad-handling everyone and is spreading around the wine. He asks, ever hopeful to apply a shortened nickname, if Suzanne ever goes by "Anne" or "Annie". She ignores him, barely responding. Laughton then offers up the redubbed baloney turkey - "bling" - and Sammy eagerly partakes, along with Laughton. Manny declines, as do most. Laughton, confused, indicates that it tastes just like turkey to him - after all, it has all the same components. And to him, indeed it is, as his brain works so furiously it deconstructs the taste elements into their constituent elements and analyzes it, proving to him that the replicator is making the same nutrients as turkey and identifying the "base taste" as identical. Then again, Laughton is after all an alien. As the Thanksgiving insanity continues, Manny, calling Willow "Rosie" (after her last name Rosenburg), exhorts her to partake. She demurs that she's not hungry and will just "peck" a bit. Then Sammy brings up SPAM, wishing they'd made a SPAM-turkey, but Laughton responds that SPAM is for Christmas. Suzanne has lost all hope...
even before Sammy, towards the end of the meal, asks around, "Who wants to go to Phoenix Mel's?" He wants a little post-meal snack. Laughton asks, "Free food?" and the confirmation is enough at first to bring him along for the ride. Suzanne agrees to go along, though she declines Hamlet's suggestion that she carry his traditional stone Rodin form along in the guise of a Corinthian column. Then Laughton realizes he doesn't have enough time to go to Phoenix Mel's and also meet Magneto. He instead makes plans to maintain mental contact with Spectrum and they head their separate ways. Willow stays behind as they leave.
At Phoenix Mel's, the Justice Squad is greeted enthusiastically by Mel and the place is packed. Then Mel surprises the Justice Squad as he announces a "meet and greet" and "autograph opportunity". Spectrum moves behind Sammy as people converge. Sammy makes a guitar out of his arm and begins to entertain the crowd.
Hamlet Laughton meanwhile meets a blue-skinned mutant with several "etchings" of sorts on his skin. The mutant has a German accent and introduces himself as Nightcrawler (yes, as in the X-Men Nightcrawler, basically). Laughton offers up some of the baloney-turkey. Not wanting to offend - but with no intention of actually eating baloney-turkey - Nightcrawler responds, "I am very full zo I keep zis for later!" Then Nightcrawler blindfolds Laughton and brings him deep into the underground of Detroit, through the salt mines. Laughton chats with Nightcrawler, asking him about Cheeks. Nightcrawler indicates that Cheeks is receiving a personalized education and special attention, and that he's escaped a bad situation. Laughton is listening, but expends more effort mentally in trying to concentrate on where they are going so he can retrace the steps if necessary. However, Nightcrawler is obviously teleporting them along, and it takes all of Laughton's mighty intelligence to deduce their direction and distance. Then he's surprised to realize that, when he reaches this Magneto underground mutant resistance cell station, it is just on the other side of the Justice Squad's HQ's back wall!
Magneto is there when Laughton's blindfold is removed. Magneto and Laughton briefly chat, then Magneto introduces him to Cheeks in short order. He then taps Cheeks on the shoulder and tells him they can be alone safely, leaving Laughton and Cheeks to talk privately. Laughton asks Cheeks about home, drawing out anecdotes of his experiences. As it turns out, Cheeks doesn't miss home. Apparently the 19-year old is often put in his "cage" when bad; he relates how one time he was put in the cage for revealing his mutation at the wrong time, in front of guests that shouldn't see it. He then goes on to state how humans are necessarily narrow-minded, echoing the indoctrination of Magneto. Cheeks also relates how he had a girlfriend - a human - and that it became clear to him that he could not mix with humans. He mentions how his "employer" became upset when she found out and enforced their separation, and how it became clear to him, first from the humans' reaction and then from his "education" (from Magneto) that it could never work out.
Laughton takes time to point out how Magneto's views are skewed in the same way that Cheeks' former owner's was, that they are prejudiced views. He asks if the teenager understands and gets an "I dunno." Laughton goes on to illustrate the lack of trust each have. He goes on to demonstrate that things are not black and white, referring to a spectrum of beliefs. As Laughton makes his point, Cheeks replies that he can go out when he wants with Nightcrawler or the Big Ugly Bug (the latter attracting Laughton's attention as the Big Ugly Bug is a friend of Sihn's). Laughton indicates how Cheeks is being indoctrinated and how the constant accompaniment is a control mechanism, even if it is not obvious or overt. He admits to Cheeks that he sees he needed saving, but wishes he were with Professor X.
Cheeks then begins asking Laughton questions. Ever the interrogator, Laughton turns it around, at first answering by indicating he's looking into the disappearances of some people, and then asking the right questions about Cheeks again. Cheeks explains that his overseer, a matronly older woman whose surname is Palmer, and apparently "adopted" Cheeks as a young mutant. Cheeks was kept away from people, raised on an estate as a servant. As they talk, Laughton introduces himself fully, asking if Cheeks had heard of him. Cheeks had not. Continuing on with discussion of the Justice Squad and Magneto, at one point Cheeks waxes that Magneto is the smartest man he's ever met. Laughton simply responds, "No, he isn't." It eventually comes up that Laughton is Rodin, and Cheeks becomes more interested and respectful. And finally the last details flow. Cheeks goes by the name of "Buddy Palmer", his given name apparently Buddy Elk. As the details flow, it becomes abundantly clear that his "guardian"/enslaver is none other than a relative of Suzanne Palmer's!
Finally, in closing, Laughton counsels the young man. "Lemme tell you, Cheeks, you seem like a nice young man, eager to learn, willing to do something to improve your life." He goes on to warn him not to build a wall of hatred around his perceptions.
Their trust established, Cheeks meekly asks, "Hey, would you do something for me?" Laughton agrees, and Cheeks scribbles out a note and hands it to Laughton to give to a "Debi Johnstone" at 3837 North Washing Avenue in Grand Rapids - next door to where he was kept. He also asks Laughton if mutants and humans ever can get together. Laughton advises there are too many humans and too few mutants for the lad to compartmentalize his life. At Cheeks' request, as they wrap up, Laughton creates a small piece of stone and autographs it for Cheeks.
Back at Phoenix Mel's, Sammy continues to entertain the crowd, mostly with Elvis Presley songs, but still appearing in his "regular guy" guise. A crowd member asks, "Where'd you get the superpowers?" Mel interrupts, shouting out, "They eat at Phoenix Mel's!" Sammy waits just a bit, picks the right moment, and says to Mel, "Do you have to go?" making it sound as if Mel is already committed to something else in an attempt to get him to leave things alone. But Mel wants to see the Justice Squad "mix it up" as some sort of floor show. Sammy offers to spit up acid on people, deliberately putting off Mel. Finally, Mel decides to attempt to get a date with Suzanne. Again, Sammy, ever a student of human behavior (and Mel can be read more easily than any book), is quick on the uptake and offers up that he and Suzanne are about to go on a date. Phoenix Mel makes a big display out of knowing the Justice Squad as Sammy and Suzanne eat a hasty retreat.
Back in the salt mines, Magneto returns and he and Laughton, with Cheeks present, begin to talk. The talk quickly becomes a sharp-witted rapid debate as Laughton continues his long-standing attempt to show Erik (Magneto) the error of his ways. Magneto accuses Laughton of asking him to "drag him [Cheeks] back to his human masters".
Laughton points out that Magneto has a "situation" in his holed-up underground shenanigans, continuing to attract undue attention. They start to debate the value of the concept of "truth" as their argument escalates into esoteric concepts. In a more pragmatic turn, Laughton points out to Magneto that as much as he gives humans little credit, it's abundantly obvious that humans can be as powerful as mutants and cause the same level of problems - or solutions. He points out that in fact it's humans who've propelled Laughton into Magneto's Detroit base.
Magneto sneers, "You really believe some rich suburban family is going to challenge the Brotherhood?"
Hamlet points out, "They might put something into play that would cause the Brotherhood to respond using more force than is necessary to deal with an elderly old lady. Very good possibility people will get hurt."
Magneto grins and comments, "You seem scared of humans."
Laughton dismisses the comment, "That's a rather presumptuous statement. Cheeks is living 237 feet below the surface of Detroit in a salt mine," the implication being of course that Magneto and his ilk are clearly hiding in fear. Though Magneto keeps it inside, he grimaces at the double whammy of Laughton's precise quotation of their depth despite the circuitous attempts at transportation with Nightcrawler. It is clearly a deliberate display by Laughton of his keen mind and how it dwarves even Magneto's.
Keeping his reserve, Magneto points out that the salt mines are quite comfortable and that if Laughton were in them he might feel the same. Laughton mentally grins given the location of the Justice Squad living and adventuring headquarters.
Finally, Hamlet proposes to get Cheeks out of the situation. Magneto is willing to listen as Laughton concocts a plan to make it look like Cheeks, inexperienced with the outside world, met an unfortunate end. Magneto is skeptical as he is convinced that would not end their hunt for Cheeks, but Laughton points out that he fully intends to produce a body - ending any search. Laughton goes on to state that he can handle the whole thing - in return for something he knows Magneto would prefer not to do. But Laughton, ever-taunting, plays with Magneto on the topic, dangling it without saying what he means precisely. He uses his persuasive abilities to impart that whatever it is, it's something he's certain Magneto just wouldn't be willing to do - using reverse psychology to imply that Magneto's thought patterns are too rigid to adapt, an affront to a man who, while no Laughton, is one of the worlds more heavyweight scientists and students of philosophy.
Finally Magneto demands, "What is the suggestion you wish to avoid - what is the unpleasant thing you wish to ask of me?"
Laughton replies, "I want you to consider giving Cheeks more educational choices. Let him consider - for example - Professor X' school."
Magneto thinks. After a calculating pause, he responds, "Not if it means I owe you something specific in regards to Mr. Cheeks."
Hamlet, knowing an immediate push will put Magneto's hair on end, quietly but clearly responds, "No, it does not. But I ask you to consider it."
As Hamlet leaves, briefly considering being pompous and making his own way out, but consenting to go the Nightcrawler route. Magneto agrees to consider it and consents to Laughton's plan to fake Cheeks' death,
Suzanne and Sammy are back at the Justice Squad HQ, chatting. Suzanne is thankful to Sammy for taking charge of the situation at Phoenix Mel's. Sammy explains that he felt responsible for dragging her in, so he felt responsible for getting her out. Laughton arrives as they speak and declares, "Well, Magneto has a new member in his 'Brotherhood of Mutants'". Suzanne asks what Laughton found out and who was involved and Laughton starts by answering, "Somebody you might know," with no further explanation, forcing Suzanne to ask the inevitable, "Can you explain a bit more?" As Laughton explains, giving the full name of Barbara Palmer, Suzanne says it sounds like her aunt, whom she's pretty sure is no mutant herself. Then Laughton brings up Cheeks' real name, Buddy, and it indeed clicks as Suzanne reveals that she knows a servant at her aunt's house named that. Laughton explains that Chesterfield, therefore, is in their employ, and elaborates as well on the "Buddy is dead" decision. Finally, he suggests paying a visit to Suzanne's aunt to "spread good cheer."
Suzanne agrees, saying, "At least, after this, they probably won't be trying to get me married anymore."
Laughton agrees, adding, dryly and with a hint of bitterness, "They might try to lock you in your cage because you've been bad."
Laughton warns her, "I may be an expert in informatica obscura, but it's not just me, it doesn't take a detective of Sammy's caliber to uncover your secret, Suzanne."
Suzanne explains, "They haven't really been looking."
Laughton (likely out of a combination of genuine concern and boundless curiosity to "see what happens" if Suzanne tells), points out the analogy, " (to be filled in)
"I may have told my dad once, I mentioned something about it, but he's forgotten since," Spectrum reveals.
Laughton points out that she hasn't been back to see her parents since the personalities sharing her head were taken care of. Suzanne makes it clear to him, though, that while most are gone she still has that one other personality sticking around. As they conclude the conversation, Suzanne invites Sammy and Laughton to come along with her to her aunt's.
Laughton then calls Chesterfield with the "sad and horrible news." The story is that Cheeks came across some underground activities, being naive, and violence came about, ending his life. They discuss arrangements for the transport of the body, Laughton offering up to get it all handled in 24 hours. Chesterfield mentions that the next day being Thanksgiving he has family commitments, Laughton responding "Oh, right! I suppose it'll wait until Friday," having planned to deliver on Friday all along.
Thanksgiving arrives and sees Suzanne, Sammy, and Laughton headed up to Grand Rapids and to the Palmer estate there. First, though, Hamlet stops at the address Cheeks gave him to deliver the message - it's next door to Barbara Palmer's place. A butler answers the door and summons Debi. Laughton explains that Cheeks wanted to bring this in person but he's no longer able to deliver the message himself, handing her the letter. She starts to read it, tears welling, and excuses herself. Before she's out of earshot, Laughton adds, "Cheeks was very sincere." As she starts to sob but takes the time to thank Hamlet, he explains Cheeks' "death" and how he didn't think it was information she deserved to get from some impersonal source. He leaves her to her grief, actually a bit humbled by the experience. In fact, he was moved enough by Cheeks' life story to overcome his curiosity and never actually read the letter - well, not more than a few words.
They walk next door to the Palmer estate. Suzanne pauses to point out to Laughton, "This is not a billable service," sternly. Hamlet relents from his usual stance (it must be quite a time for him), grousing, "Oh, all right!" Sammy meanwhile is just eager to exercise his learnings about high society, decked out as he is in his $1,000 suit.
A butler answers the door, recognizing Suzanne and letting her in with her guests. Suzanne enters the dining room and "Auntie Palmer", as she prefers to be known, gushes, "Oh, it's so good to see you! This is so - unexpected!" as she looks at Suzanne's friends, and adds, "If I'd known I would have prepared!"
Suzanne remains polite and compliments her aunt on the spread, a large meal with many of the Palmer family (though not Suzanne's parents, in the Poconos as aforementioned). Hamlet, however, inelegantly throws in "We're not picky eaters."
Barbara superficially laughts it off, "Ho-ho-ho, so delightful!"
As Auntie Palmer starts to act as if she thinks Suzanne may be bringing one of the two as a prospective mate, Suzanne introduces him as "MISTER Laughton," which prompts Barbara to interject, "Oh, are you a policeman?"
Laughton says, "I'm a musician." But then he "casually" asks if she's familiar with "a Mr. Chesterfield."
She doesn't answer but almost turns white. Attempting to recover but shaken, she turns to Suzanne, a bit desperately asking, "So what brings you here?"
Suzanne, with many family members and acquaintances in the same room and within earshot, indirectly answers, "Just delivering something, have some family obligations, and thought I'd drop by."
Barbara is a bit confused but becomes both more confused and disturbed when Laughton, acting fully the role of the ominous stranger, quietly suggests they move to the parlor.
Shortly they're in the parlor, removed from the rest of Suzanne's family. Laughton starts out, "Look, Babs..."
But Spectrum interrupts him, via the mind-link, saying, "Hamlet, she does seem to be pretty despicable but she's still my aunt."
Laughton pauses - mentally responding with the whole "you can't pick your family" thing - and Sammy, ignored among all the confusion and Barbara's increasing nervousness, chimes in, introducing himself to her as Samuel just as Barbara, becoming irritated, starts to ask who Suzanne's friends are.
Laughton takes Barbara's question as an opportunity to regain control of the conversation. He explains that he wouldn't normally breach client-privileged information but admits he was confidentially employed by Chesterfield as he is "the world's greatest detective."
Suzanne mutters, "He is pretty good."
Barbara gets charged with anger at the impudence, and her self-confidence returns as she goes into her "matriarch of the household" tone. She explains that things are complicated, that "one plus one does not always equal..."
but is interrupted as Sammy calls out the answer!
Still, she does well in dealing with the strange intrusion and starts talking about how society works, attempting to use her bluster to take control.
Laughton is unimpressed, interrupting her with, "Can it, Babs."
Suzanne cuts to the meat of the matter, revealing she knows about Buddy. "Babs" stops her, saying, "I'm sure this family is not interested in your little crusades again," the "again" a reference to Suzanne's reputation for working with the poor, oppressed, and falsely accused. They begin to bicker, the Justice Squad members impressing on Barbara the inhumane conditions she enforced on Buddy. But Barbara does not get it, and, in fact, seems to really believe she "protected" Buddy, giving him a home and looking out for him while putting his time "to good use", not letting him be "idle". She goes on to talk about his "condition", saying "It's not like he could help it," in a poor attempt to display her "tolerance". Suzanne angrily points out that just because Buddy had abilities normal people do not is no reason to treat him like a "black guy in the past." Laughton presses, pointing out how Barbara kept it a secret, clearly ashamed.
Laughton aims to finish the conversation. "Ms. Palmer, because of the way you chose to treat Buddy - because of the lack of free will he was able to exhibit here..."
She interrupts, "You mean PROTECTION!"
Laughton continues, unheeding of her, "...he was unprepared to deal with the real world..." as Laughton prepares for the "punch line", Suzanne moves back into the dining room to say hello to some of the cousins she's fond of. But she makes a point as she leaves the parlor of telekinetically opening the doors. Barbara seems to ignore it, but Laughton interrupts himself to point it out.
When Barbara responds indignantly, leaping to an assumption, "It was nice of you to open the door for Suzanne," Laughton responds, "I didn't open the door. Sammy, did you open the door?" Sammy nods and replies, "Nope". Laughton turns to Barbara and asks with feigned incredulity, "Did YOU open the door for Suzanne?" Then Suzanne yells back, without looking, "Opened it myself," and keeps walking. She stays in touch with Hamlet via the mind-link.
Barbara is clearly shocked. As she reels from the truth of her niece, Laughton delivers the final blow. "As I was saying, Buddy was not prepared to deal with the real world," and he continues on, telling the concocted story, culminating with, "and Buddy met an unfortunate end."
The aunt is upset, clearly, at the loss, something she apparently never considered. Fighting back the urge to grieve, she goes on the attack, stridently and awkwardly defending herself with, "He was always given a piece of the turkey, which is more than you'll receive today."
Laughton responds, "I got my baloney sandwich, I'm fine."
Still in attack mode, Barbara threatens to call the police, noting they respond quickly for people like herself. Laughton points out that Buddy never had the chance to call the police when he was subjected to child abuse at age seven, citing a story Buddy told him of being locked in the cage for "inappropriately" (i.e., in front of a human in the course of his duties) displaying his powers. Barbara grows more upset, crying from both anger and grief, intoning, "You don't understand!"
As the dramatic scene in the parlor reaches its end, Suzanne is chatting briefly with her cousins, and mentions, without explanation, that she probably won't be back to this neck of the woods. She runs into one of her cousins who talks about an old wedding they were both at. Suzanne muses that was "practically a different world at that time," compared to today. The cousin asks if she's not coming back due to problems with the aunt, and Spectrum says, "Right at the moment..." mentally listening in on Laughton, "...oop, yup, that bridge is burnt!" She invites her cousin to visit her in Detroit, raising snickers from him that she'd still live in the city, but he does resolve to make his way out there. She notes that in fact she no longer lives in the city, that she has a place now in the nearby suburbs of Gros Pointe Farms, but that she still works in the city. She adds, "You'd be amazed at the money-saving tips some of my colleagues use!" thinking of Laughton. She muses to what degree her spoilt ultra-upper-class-suburban cousin would be amazed.
Then her cell phone rings as Laughton calls her, saying he figured she needed an excuse to get out of the conversation. She replies, "I'm just doing my taxes mentally while talking to him, no big deal." Laughton says, "Well, we really do have to leave."
Just before leaving, though Laughton gives Barbara Palmer his 5-minute speech on his views on mutant-human relation, how she's gone terribly wrong, and how she is responsible for Buddy's death. As Laughton points out that now she doesn't have a mutant to do her chores anymore, Barbara responds with, "You're a heartless, cruel man!" Laughton merely agrees, "Well, yes, I suppose I am cruel and heartless," pointedly leaving out the "man".
Finally, Suzanne comes into the parlor and herds her friends out. She tells her aunt, "I won't be back as you don't treat everyone as an equal as you should." Then, to make her point more forcefully, she telepathically sends an additional message directly into her aunt's thoughts, "You really ought to think about that!"
Barbara stammers at Suzanne's revelation as the Justice Squad leaves, Suzanne stopping once more to briefly say goodbye to her relatives and mention she's sure they'll catch up later. On their way out, the butler stops Suzanne and quietly says, "Next time m'lady may see fit not to hire another disadvantaged person." He suddenly gets a headache. He adds, "I mean that I would imagine she's learned her lesson, or at least I should hope. She's been employing them for quite some time." Suzanne picks the butler's brain for any details, hoping to ensure it doesn't happen again. A few salient details are found and she passes them on to Laughton who will ensure the secret trade is stopped at least in terms of the dealers Spectrum picks up on.
Suzanne and Laughton, on the way home, discuss the situation with her parents. Laughton is concerned that "Babs" will tell her parents and spoil what should be a more private and well-delivered moment. Suzanne doesn't think she will, she's sure her aunt will be too embarrassed to discuss any of what happened. Laughton, though, insists on rerouting all of her outgoing calls to an 888 number, with an operator "please hold" message! While Suzanne initially resists the idea, Laughton insists it's no trouble and convinces her to let him do his well-intended deed (in fact, no billable hours are even brought up!). Besides, as Laughton also raises the "safer" possibility of turning her to stone, Spectrum decides that the phone rerouting is the lesser of all evils.
That same day Suzanne flies out to the Poconos and visits her parents. She reveals it all, slowly, telling everything up through the incident at her aunt's place and of course the Buddy story. Her mother hugs her, her father is evidently uncomfortable, though merely that as opposed to upset or intolerant, and tries to hide it as he offers his support; it's clear he's just going to need some time as he's surprised, and Suzanne respects that as it's clear to her he loves her and wants to do what he can. As they speak, her parents grow very concerned over her involvement with the Justice Squad and the Laughton Agency (often in the news!), fearing for her safety. She does her best to set their minds at ease, explaining at first that she has a responsibility, given her abilities, and that she takes every precaution she can. She also explains it was only with her initial involvement with the Justice Squad that she began to really accept herself. The story ends happily, Suzanne ensured of the loving support of her parents.
Well, it ends happily except for Barbara Palmer who struggles with her calls being forwarded to what is actually a 976 number - with money naturally funneled secretly into one of Laughton's many accounts...
[Game Mechanics - Points Awarded...
For resolving the Buddy situation once and for all (with the additional stuff with the aunt, that is) where the situation was interesting but not that powerful - +11.25 RP, +.75 XP for Laughton, Sammy, Spectrum
For resolving the situation with Toad this time, him being interesting but not that powerful - +1.875 RP, +.125 XP for Laughton, Sammy, Spectrum
5 hours in character - +3.75 RP, +1.25 XP for Laughton, Sammy, Spectrum
Totals:
Laughton 16.875 RP, 1 XP
Sammy 16.875 RP, 1 XP
Spectrum 16.875 RP, 1 XP
Totals to Date:
Dice 188.5 RPs, 14.95 XPs
Laughton 1504.375 RPs, 136.125 XPs (with Rep level, 50 for base, 25 for minion,
50 for reorg (note, did not use for agency or life-saving)
Neumann 344.5 RPs, 49.05 XPs (with Rep level, 50 for base)
Sammy the Slime 1421.125 RPs, 139.9875 XPs (with Rep level, 50 for base,
25 for minion, 50 for reorg (note, did not use for agency or life-saving)
Spectrum 1335.125 RPs, 126.425 XPs (with Rep level, 50 for base, 25 for
minion, 50 for reorg (note, did not use for agency or life-saving)
Steely Danelle 86 RPs, 10.75 XPs
Troll 1457.25 RPs, 136.25 XPs (with Rep level, 50 for base, 25 for minion,
50 for reorg (note, did not use for agency or life-saving)]